When it came time to be evaluated, it didn’t feel like a test, but rather a process to ensure my practice aligned with local standards. The college maintained a high level of professionalism throughout, and I always felt like a contributing peer within the system—not someone who had to prove their worth.
Choosing New Zealand felt like a natural decision—the training and skill level expected of anaesthetists closely mirrored my own, and I believed my experience would translate well. The country also offered a welcoming environment and a healthcare culture that valued professionalism and balance.
The SIMG process, facilitated by the college, was structured, transparent, and incredibly well-organised. As a foreign graduate, I never felt judged—my previous experience was respected, valued, and genuinely welcomed. When it came time to be evaluated, it didn’t feel like a test, but rather a process to ensure my practice aligned with local standards. The college maintained a high level of professionalism throughout, and I always felt like a contributing peer within the system—not someone who had to prove their worth.
Clinically, anaesthesia is mostly universal—but daily cultural and institutional differences were noticeable. Things like drug packaging, how the theatre list runs, and routine workflows varied from what I was used to. These differences are normal and regional, and they take time to adjust to. Fortunately, I was surrounded by a supportive department that helped me navigate the transition and feel at home in my new environment.
This has been a journey I’ve completed, and one that concluded positively for me. I don’t regret the decision to pursue this path, and I truly believe that for those who choose it for the right reasons, it can be a rewarding and affirming experience. New Zealand has much to offer both professionally and personally, and I’m grateful to have taken this step.